At 30 Rooney is entering the veteran stage of his career - but Mourinho believes he isn't on the decline.

“I can say, because everybody knows, I tried to buy him," said the former two-times Chelsea manager.

“He is a player I always wanted to have in my side. Finally, I have him and I have him in the club he loves, the club where he has spent the best years of his career. And, I think, the best is yet to come from him.

“I find him full of motivation, full of joy to work every day, and happy to be here as a leader for the young people. He’s my man too. I can say, at this moment, he is my man. I am really happy.”